Richard Griffiths, star of films including Harry Potter and Withnail and I, has died at the age of 65. He passed away after complications following heart surgery.

Among those paying tribute to the famed theatrical star was Daniel Radcliffe, who worked with Richard in both Harry Potter and in the play Equus.

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"Richard was by my side during the two most important moments of my career," he said. "In August 2000, before official production had even begun on Potter, we filmed a shot outside the Dursleys', which was my first ever shot as Harry. I was nervous and he made me feel at ease.

"Seven years later we embarked on Equus together. It was my first time doing a play but, terrified as I was, his encouragement, tutelage and humour made it a joy.

"In fact, any room he walked into was made twice as funny and twice as clever just by his presence. I am proud to say I knew him."

Richard enjoyed a long and distinguished career on film, television and stage. In 2008, he was appointed an OBE in the New Year Honours list.

He is best known for playing Vernon Dursley in the Harry Potter franchise, and also Uncle Monty in Withnail and I. His TV roles included playing cookery-loving detective Henry Crabbe in Pie in the Sky.